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Discover a new side to Bangkok with this itinerary perfect for the summer

by Contributor
written by Contributor

MANILA, Philippines – Bangkok is a city brimming with experiences made for the adventurous, the artsy, and the curious. It’s long been a favorite among Filipino travelers because of its dynamic mix of traditional and modern. With summer coming soon, holiday trips and getaway plans are already taking shape for many barkadas and families. 

If Bangkok is on your list this year, having an easy way to pay and keep track of spending in a fast-paced city like it just makes the whole trip feel lighter. Thankfully, now you can Scan-Swipe-Tap with GCash abroad, and payments quickly become one less thing to worry about. Because you get lower forex rates and real-time spend tracking, you can focus on enjoying your time in these stops: 

1. Dine above the city at Akara Sky Hanuman

    Bangkok is already a food lover’s paradise, but dining at Akara Sky elevates the experience even further. It’s the country’s highest sky dining experience – a rooftop space where you can enjoy Thai street food favorites and other authentic dishes while taking in 360-degree views of the city. During dinner, guests are also treated to Thai cultural performances, including Muay Thai boxing and traditional dances, inviting everyone to appreciate the country’s heritage. The restaurant also has 10 zones of immersive exhibitions to visit for photos!

    2. Sign up for a private cooking class

      Speaking of food, if your barkada bonds best over food, booking a Thai cooking class is a must-try activity. White Lotus offers hands-on sessions where you’ll learn how to make classics like Tom Yum and Pad Thai, with a local culinary expert walking you through ingredients and techniques. Classes run for about three hours, and if you’re a big group singing up, you can book the whole class. You can pre-book slots on their website and pay using the GCash Visa Card, so there’s no stress over steep credit card forex fees.

      3. Experience the world’s noisiest massage

        At Bradbury, known as the noisiest massage in the world, you and your friends are in for a treat. Their four-hand massage, done by two therapists at the same time, happens in a space filled with LED visuals, music, projection mapping, and surprise performances throughout your session. 

        4. Explore one of the world’s coolest neighborhoods at Songwat Road

          Perhaps Thailand’s most popular neighborhood online right now is Songwat Road – in fact, it’s listed among the 40 coolest neighborhoods in the world. Song Wat is best explored while taking your time, ordering from matcha cafés, picking up pastries at bakeries, and browsing vintage stores, ceramic shops, record stores, and souvenir spots filled with handcrafted Thai items. There are also perfume and home scent stores, plus endless street food options. 

          Even if you’re not planning to shop, you’ll probably head back home to your hotel with something. And with many merchants now accepting GCash via Alipay+, paying as you go is easy and effortless. To use GCash abroad, just look for the Alipay+ logo at the counter, select “pay abroad,” generate your QR code, and let the merchant scan it – and you’re done!

          5. Shop a wide selection of local Thai brands at Emsphere 

            Emsphere is the newest lifestyle hub in Bangkok’s EM District, just a few minutes from the city center. Emsphere features six floors filled with a wide variety of shops, from local brands to high-end luxury favorites. It’s the perfect place to find unique, quality goods, whether you’re shopping for yourself or looking for pasalubong to take home. 

            The main lifestyle hub on the first floor is the best place to find trendy lifestyle and streetwear brands, including homegrown brands such as FRANK and Daddy Muscle. For all your shopping moments, you can enjoy easy, convenient payments with GCash Tap to Pay abroad so there’s no need to worry about scrambling for cash. Available for all NFC-enabled Android smartphones, it lets you pay with just one tap on the payment terminal.

            Scan-Swipe-Tap Your Way to an Unforgettable Bangkok Experience

            Bangkok is a no-fail destination. No matter what you do, or where you go, it will always feel better when payments are seamless and stress-free. Paying with GCash abroad means you can keep track of your spending in real time, enjoy lower forex rates updated in-app, and move through each stop without the stress of cash conversions or surprise charges when you get home. Some merchants even offer special promos and discounts – just tap “Travel” on the GCash app and check out the Travel Treats section!

            Wherever your Bangkok adventure takes you this year, remember to Scan-Swipe-Tap, and download the GCash app so you’re all set.

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            Business

            GCash launches in-app beginner’s guide to introduce crypto to everyday Filipinos

            by Contributor
            written by Contributor

            INTEREST in cryptocurrency continues to grow among Filipinos, with 96% showing awareness and over half expressing intent to invest within the year, according to a 2025 Consensys survey. Despite this high curiosity, many remain cautious and unsure where to begin.

            To help everyday Filipinos take their first confident step into the world of crypto, finance super app GCash launches “A Beginner’s Guide to Cryptocurrency”, a free and exclusive in-app introduction to cryptocurrency, written and illustrated by Luis Buenaventura, head of GCrypto. Buenaventura, a Filipino crypto author, artist, and entrepreneur, is widely recognized as a pioneer in the local and global crypto scene. 

            The Filipino-focused, narrative-style guide breaks down complex concepts like Bitcoin, wallets, and volatility through familiar and practical examples like inflation and daily budgeting, making the topic more approachable for crypto newbies. 

            “Storytelling makes learning personal and relatable. By grounding financial concepts into everyday examples, we aim to make complex topics like crypto approachable for anyone,” said Buenaventura.

            Crypto: From making sense to making moves

            Divided into eight chapters, the guide takes users through the fundamentals of crypto in a practical, easy-to-follow format that reflects the real financial experiences of Filipinos. It starts with why cryptocurrency was developed–tracing its roots to real-world economic challenges, particularly inflation and its impact on people’s savings and purchasing power. From there, it walks readers through Bitcoin’s rise and volatility. 

            “Understanding why crypto matters is the first step to learning how to use it wisely,” Buenaventura noted. “By helping them understand the balance of ‘high risk, high reward,’ we aim to set realistic expectations before they dive into actual investing.”

            Once readers have a grasp of cryptocurrency, the book guides them towards taking their first careful step into investing. It emphasizes the importance of building traditional savings, maintaining diversified investments, and treating crypto as a complement—not a replacement—to other financial foundations.

            The succeeding chapters explore the tools and mindsets needed to invest responsibly. It explains wallet apps, satoshis, and trading basics, and introduces other cryptocurrencies beyond Bitcoin, such as Ethereum, Solana, stablecoins, and high-volatility memecoins. 

            It also dives into the mindset behind investing, tackling topics like moments of doubt, the importance of discipline, and the value of long-term thinking. Ultimately, it brings the conversation back to purpose—that crypto should serve real-life goals, helping Filipinos fund dreams, support their families, and celebrate financial progress responsibly.

            “Our goal is to educate Filipinos on the responsible use of cryptocurrency, enabling them to take confident, informed steps into the future of finance,” Buenaventura added.

            Crypto na Gets Mo

            Accessible with just a few taps, “A Beginner’s Guide to Cryptocurrency” is now available through GCrypto, a secure marketplace within the GCash app where users can buy, sell, and learn about crypto safely. 

            “By publishing the book directly on the GCrypto platform, users can learn and explore at their own pace within a secure environment. This helps Filipinos build confidence and make informed decisions as they navigate the world of crypto,” said Buenaventura. 

            With streamlined registration, low minimum investment options, and a curated selection of reputable coins reviewed by security experts, GCrypto aims to make cryptocurrency more accessible and less intimidating for Filipino users.

            Users can register and begin trading with just their fully verified GCash account, with no separate onboarding required. With investment entry points starting at just ₱200, GCrypto lowers the barrier for participation in the digital economy. 

            The platform also offers a carefully curated portfolio of trusted cryptocurrencies, helping users make informed choices among reputable coins vetted for security and reliability. It also supports seamless conversion between pesos and crypto, as well as blockchain transactions for sending and receiving funds, all within the GCash app.

            Users can access the book by opening the GCash app, tapping ‘Grow,’ and selecting GCrypto.

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            ADB and GCash Fuse partner to unlock inclusive finance for MSMEs, women and fight poverty in the Philippines

            by Contributor
            written by Contributor

            ADB grants GCash lending arm Fuse Financing with Php 1.75B credit facility to expand loan access to MSMEs, women entrepreneurs, especially in high poverty areas. ADB’s  financing is complemented by catalytic funding from Mastercard to help Fuse reach priority segments.

            Micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) and women entrepreneurs across the Philippines are set to gain significantly better financial access after the Asian Development Bank (ADB) approved a  Php 1.75 billion ($30 million) loan facility to Fuse Financing Inc., the lending arm of GCash, the country’s leading finance superapp and largest cashless ecosystem.

            Fuse Financing Inc. President and CEO Tony Isidro, Mynt President and CEO Martha Sazon, and Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Cristina Roque award P10,000-worth of capitalization support to each of 10 entrepreneurs to help them grow and strengthen their businesses.

            This first-of-its-kind partnership in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) region was officially launched on February 6 at the SMX Convention Center in Taguig City with the theme  “Driving Inclusive Finance for Filipino MSMEs” and was witnessed by over 250 MSMEs, including sari-sari store and carinderia owners and women entrepreneurs. This milestone collaboration enables Fuse to expand its lending portfolio and scale access to credit for the country’s most critical economic drivers.

            MSMEs are a cornerstone of the Philippine economy, accounting for around 40% of the gross domestic product and 63% of total employment. According to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), there are 1.24 million registered business establishments as of 2024, over 99 percent of which are micro, small, and medium enterprises.

            Yet, access to financing remains a key barrier. According to an ADB study, access to credit and capital ranks as the second most significant challenge for MSMEs, after access to markets. With such a financial challenge, it takes less than 12 months for a small business to shut down operations.

            “This fintech partnership is the first-of-its kind for ADB in the ASEAN region and marks a significant step in advancing financial inclusion in the Philippines,” said Isabel Chatterton, Director General, Private Sector Operations Department of Asian Development Bank. “By combining Fuse’s digital reach with ADB’s development financing, we are building an inclusive digital financial ecosystem that expands access to finance for women-led and rural enterprises across the country.”

            [L-R] Acting Regional Director Jay Acar, Department of Trade and Industry; Martha Sazon, President and CEO of Mynt, the parent company of GCash; Secretary Cristina Roque, Department of Trade and Industry; Tony Isidro, President and CEO of Fuse Financing Inc.; Christine Engstrom Director General for Sectors Department 3 in Finance of the Asian Development Bank; and Subhashini Chandran, SVP, Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth. The private and public sectors are working together to promote financial inclusion for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and women entrepreneurs. On Friday, the Asian Development Bank and Fuse Financing Inc., the lending arm of GCash, launched a landmark loan partnership for MSMEs together with Mastercard and DTI and conducted a financial literacy workshop to support their growth.

            [1] Asian Development Bank. Factors affecting micro, small and medium-sized enterprises development in developing Asia. https://www.adb.org/sites/default/files/publication/946586/ewp715-factors-affecting-msme-development.pdf Philippine Institute for Development Studies. Evaluation of the Sustainable Livelihood Program’s Seed Capital Fund for Microenterprise Development. https://www.pids.gov.ph/publication/research-paper-series/evaluation-of-the-sustainable-livelihood-program-s-seed-capital-fund-for-microenterprise-development

            “We value our partnership with ADB as it strengthens our ability to expand access to credit for MSMEs and women entrepreneurs, who are underserved by the market. By combining our shared expertise and digital reach, we are advancing financial inclusion and helping more Filipinos grow their businesses,” Mynt President and CEO Martha Sazon said.

            ADB will also provide up to $125,000 in technical assistance to help Fuse Financing develop tailored financial products and deliver financial and digital literacy training for women, especially those with limited formal education. This aligns with the broader push of ADB and GCash for digital finance and inclusion across Asia and the Pacific.

            Complementing ADB’s financing, the Mastercard Impact Fund, with support from the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth also extended a catalytic funding to support Fuse in effectively reaching and serving the priority MSME segments.

            Fuse Financing Inc. President and CEO Tony Isidro underscored the significance of this partnership especially in supporting Fuse’s mission of delivering fair loans and expanding inclusive credit access for underserved Filipinos.

            “Through our partnership with ADB, with additional support from the Mastercard Impact Fund, we are strengthening our mission to make credit accessible to every Filipino who needs it most,” Isidro said. “This investment enables us to accelerate our support for women entrepreneurs and small businesses in underserved areas, sectors with immense potential to drive the country’s long-term growth,” he added.

            “This collaboration brings together catalytic capital, digital infrastructure and inclusive design to unlock new pathways for financial security. By working with Fuse Financing and the Asian Development Bank to extend credit to underserved entrepreneurs, we are ensuring that growth in the digital economy is fair and sustainable,” said Subhashini Chandran, senior vice president, Asia Pacific, Europe, Middle East and Africa, Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth.

            (L-R) Martha Sazon, President and CEO of Mynt, the parent company of GCash; Tony Isidro, President and CEO of Fuse Financing Inc.; and Christine Engstrom Director General for Sectors Department 3 in Finance of the Asian Development Bank. The Asian Development Bank and Fuse Financing Inc., the lending arm of GCash, have officially launched their partnership to expand loan access to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and women entrepreneurs, a move that is seen to accelerate financial inclusion and unlock growth for underserved sectors across the Philippines.

            To commemorate this partnership, 10 MSMEs nominated by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) were awarded with capitalization support to help advance their business operations.  DTI  Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque also graced the event and delivered a keynote message to all the MSMEs in attendance highlighting how synergies like this unlock growth and inclusion.

            “More than the scale of financing, what makes this partnership meaningful is its intent: to ensure that capital reaches entrepreneurs who are ready to grow but have long been underserved by traditional systems. By aligning public-sector priorities with private-sector innovation, this collaboration helps widen the path to formal, fair, and sustainable access to finance for MSMEs,” Secretary Roque said in her speech.

            A day of FinLit for MSMEs


            Alongside this partnership launch, Fuse gathered over 250 sari-sari store owners and women entrepreneurs to experience financial literacy workshops designed to help them manage their finances better, borrow responsibly, and build more resilient businesses.

            Attendees were equipped with the knowledge to access digital loans, improve their eligibility for loan access, and practice responsible borrowing. In addition, MSMEs were taught how to integrate digital platforms into their operations to improve efficiency.

            [L-R] Subhashini Chandran, SVP, Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth; Christine Engstrom Director General for Sectors Department 3 in Finance of the Asian Development Bank; Tony Isidro, President and CEO of Fuse Financing Inc.; Secretary Cristina Roque, Department of Trade and Industry; and Martha Sazon, President and CEO of Mynt, the parent company of GCash. The Asian Development Bank and Fuse Financing Inc., the lending arm of GCash, have launched a landmark partnership with a Php 1.75B loan facility aimed at supercharging credit access in the country. Joining them are Mastercard who extended a catalytic funding and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), underscoring strong public–private collaboration to support inclusive and responsible financing for MSMEs.

            MSMEs are vital to national progress but remain underserved by traditional financial institutions.  According to an ADB study, access to credit remains a most significant challenge for MSMEs[3]. Leveraging GCash trust scoring system GSCore as part of the creditworthiness assessment, Fuse eliminates the traditional barriers to lending, with no collateral or documentary requirements needed to secure loans, enabling greater credit access for everyday Filipinos.

            The ADB-Fuse partnership aims to unlock MSME’s growth potential and contribute to inclusive economic expansion. Unlike traditional financing, the capital is designed for impact, carrying firm social mandates that ensure measurable inclusion. This serves as a model for how fintech and development institutions can align with purpose, transforming financial access by ensuring that opportunity reaches those who can create lasting social and economic change.

            For more information, please visit www.gcash.com.

            [1] Asian Development Bank. Factors affecting micro, small and medium-sized enterprises development in developing Asia. https://www.adb.org/sites/default/files/publication/946586/ewp715-factors-affecting-msme-development.pdf

            [2] Philippine Institute for Development Studies. Evaluation of the Sustainable Livelihood Program’s Seed Capital Fund for Microenterprise Development. https://www.pids.gov.ph/publication/research-paper-series/evaluation-of-the-sustainable-livelihood-program-s-seed-capital-fund-for-microenterprise-development

            [3] Asian Development Bank. Factors affecting micro, small and medium-sized enterprises development in developing Asia. https://www.adb.org/sites/default/files/publication/946586/ewp715-factors-affecting-msme-development.pdf

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            GCash cautions the public against new scams forcing users to download fake mobile apps from suspicious websites

            by Contributor
            written by Contributor

            GCash warns users to beware of fake government IDs, suspicious video calls, screenshare requests, and bogus app downloads from unfamiliar websites.

            GCash is warning the public against new scam tactics that involve fraudsters posing as representatives of legitimate organizations or government agencies. Scammers are employing increasingly sophisticated tactics, including phone calls, emails, fake apps, and staged online video meetings, to pressure victims into revealing their account credentials, resulting in unauthorized access and financial loss.

            Here are new tactics that scammers are using to target victims, and what to do in case you encounter these:

            Fake eGovPH and PhilSys representatives

            1. Scammers will pretend to be from a company or government agency and say your National ID is ready or needs verification.
            2. They will ask you to join a Google Meet call, send a link, and tell you to download a fake app and share your screen.
            3. By watching your screen, they will steal your OTPs, PINs, and passwords, then access your banking and e-wallet accounts.

            Fake promos, expiring rewards, and offers that are too good to be true

            1. Scammers will pretend to be customer service or company representatives and contact you about rewards, points, or promos.
            2. They create urgency and say an OTP is needed to redeem the offer or secure the reward.
            3. Some scammers will pretend to be from GCash or a bank and offer account verification, cashback, or security updates.

            How to protect yourself

            1. Ignore unexpected calls or meeting invites about account or ID verification. If pressured to act fast, hang up or decline immediately.
            2. Never share your OTP, MPIN, passwords, or screen during logins or transactions.

            3. Do not download apps from links sent by email or text: use the official Apple App Store, Google Play, or Huawei AppGallery.

            Report suspicious activity and stay informed

            GCash users can report suspected scams through the GCash Help Center at help.gcash.com by chatting with Gigi and selecting “I want to report a scam”, or by calling the official GCash hotline at 2882.

            Users may also report incidents to the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group at (02) 8414-1560 / 0998-598-8116 or acg@pnp.gov.ph, and to the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) via hotline 1326, mobile 0991-481-4225, or report@cicc.gov.ph.

            GCash actively monitors and blocks suspicious activity, takes down reported scam links and accounts, and works closely with law enforcement and government agencies to protect the public.

            For more information and updates on cybersecurity, visit the PNP ACG Facebook Page and the GCash website at https://www.gcash.com. The GCash app is available for free on Google Play Store, Apple App Store or Huawei App Gallery. For safety reminders and updates, visit the official Facebook page at GCash Official.

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            GCash supports local MSME growth and local entrepreneurship through accessible digital financial tools at Sinulog Festival 2026

            by Contributor
            written by Contributor

            CEBU City once again came alive with color, devotion, and celebration as the Sinulog Festival filled the streets with music, movement, and community spirit in honor of the Sto Niño. Joining the festivities, GCash brought a mix of exciting on-ground activities and practical digital solutions, turning Sinulog into a celebration of faith and culture, and progress for local nano, micro, small, and medium enterprises (NMSMEs).

            GCash Sinulog activities highlighted how faster, cashless payments can help small businesses keep up with the festival rush, serve more customers, and unlock new income opportunities during peak moments of celebration.

            Festival-goers enjoyed GCash experience hubs across key festival areas, with interactive booths at the grandstand and mobile PisoCarts stationed along parade routes. Through these PisoCarts, essential items were offered for just ₱1 when paid via GCash QR, showcasing how digital payments make transactions quicker, easier, and more convenient amid large crowds. Driving an additional income boost and faster payment processing for our NMSMEs engaged for the Sinulog Festival. 

            “We want every festival-goer and merchant partner to experience a Sinulog that is as seamless as it is vibrant. Through initiatives like our PisoTreats and cashless QR payments, we are weaving financial technology into the very fabric of the festival. We are proud to support Cebu’s nano, micro, small, and medium enterprises (NMSMEs) as they transition from traditional retail to a digital-first future and a trusted financial hub in their communities through GCash Pera Outlet Plus, ensuring that no one is left behind in our journey toward a ‘Finance for All’ Philippines,” said Tania Gil Padilla, Vice President for GCash Regional Business Unit.

            From tradition to transformation: MSMEs at the heart of Sinulog

            In Cebu’s communities, sari-sari stores and family-run businesses remain everyday lifelines. During Sinulog, they also become frontliners of commerce—serving locals, devotees, and tourists alike. By bridging traditional retail with digital finance, GCash helps these businesses not just survive busy seasons but grow sustainably beyond them.

            One such story is Ysabela Store in Mabolo, Cebu City, run by husband-and-wife team Soledad “Sol” Braceros and John Paul Braceros. What began as a modest sari-sari store named after their daughter has grown into a mini-grocery, driven in large part by their early adoption of GCash and GCash Pera Outlet Plus (GPO+).

            “What began as a small sari-sari store named for our daughter nine years ago has grown into a mini-grocery, significantly thanks to GCash,” shared Sol and John Paul. “The cash-in, cash-out service provides us with a steady revenue stream. This is essential for serving our community, particularly the families who receive remittances from loved ones working in Manila every payday. GCash has been crucial to our expansion.”

            Through services such as cash-in, cash-out, and bills payment, Ysabela Store has become a trusted financial touchpoint in its neighborhood—proof that digital trust can thrive even in the most local of spaces.

            Keeping up with the pace of festivities

            Meanwhile, at Taboan Market, where tourists flock for Cebu’s famous dried fish pasalubong, Cindy & Nico Dried Fish Store reflects how digital payments are reshaping long-standing family businesses.

            “My parents founded this store years ago, and I joined them to help manage it two years back,” said Cindy Bayon-on. “After the pandemic, we started using GCash because customers kept asking for it. Now, especially during Sinulog, it’s been a huge help. Tourists buying pasalubong are often in a hurry to see the next event. With GCash, transactions are quick and hassle-free, and it’s convenient for our customers, which makes business much smoother.”

            A festival of progress shared by the community

            Through initiatives like these, GCash further strengthens its commitment to help MSMEs grow their businesses. Its initiatives during festivals like Sinulog, aim to help participating merchants increase service-related earnings as it encourages the continued use of digital payments even after the festivities.

            By weaving financial technology into one of the country’s most iconic festivals, GCash helps make the Sinulog experience more inclusive and empowering by supporting local businesses, easing everyday transactions, and ensuring that progress is shared across the community long after the final dance.

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            GCash lending arm Fuse advances AI use to strengthen responsible collections practices and protect customer dignity

            by Contributor
            written by Contributor

            Fuse Financing Inc., the lending arm of GCash, is enhancing its customer servicing as it expands its strategic partnership with artificial intelligence (AI) solutions provider Wiz.AI, automating key processes within its collections operations, particularly Quality Assurance (QA) to strengthen the audit process and overall service quality.

            Leveraging the expertise of Wiz.AI, voice AI will review and assess call recordings, evaluating performance based on service quality. This integration will help ensure that human agents remain respectful and uphold the company’s commitment to fair and responsible collection practices.

            “Our partnership with Wiz.AI has already transformed how we manage high-volume collection calls, and with this renewed collaboration, we’re excited to explore new frontiers in automation. By integrating voice AI into our QA processes, we’re not only improving operational efficiency but also ensuring a more consistent and personalized customer experience,” said Tony Isidro, President and CEO of Fuse Financing Inc.

            “This innovation will also support our audit process to ensure our agents remain responsible, while helping us gain insights into how we can further enhance the way we serve our customers and continuously improve our service. We highly value our customers’ dignity and maintain zero tolerance for harassment or abusive practices,” Isidro added.

            Over the past three years, the lending arm of the country’s leading finance super app, GCash, and Wiz.AI have worked together to deploy VoiceBot, an AI-powered voice automation tool that handles high-volume, routine collection calls. The solution has reduced the heavy manual workload, allowing agents to focus on more complex and high-value customer concerns that require human interaction.

            This marks a major step toward solving one of the lending industry’s biggest challenges: labor-intensive processes– while enhancing scalability,  reducing errors, and improving the overall customer experience.


            Wiz.AI’s technology enables the lending arm to offload repetitive, lower-value tasks from human agents, such as making reminder calls or verifying information. This allows agents to focus on complex customer interactions that require empathy, negotiation, or deeper problem-solving—improving both productivity and service quality.

            “Fuse’s success in leveraging voice AI is a perfect example of how the GCash ecosystem uses smart technology to solve core friction points for financial inclusion,” said Pebbles Sy, Chief Technology and Operations Officer of Mynt, the parent company of GCash. “This partnership ensures our lending platform is scalable, trustworthy, and efficient, allowing us to safely serve millions more Filipinos.”

            Fuse Financing Inc., the lending arm of GCash, advances responsible AI in lending to strengthen collection practices and protect customer dignity, enhancing financial inclusion (L-R) Alex Song, Chief Operating Officer, Wiz.Ai; Pebbles Sy, Chief Technology and Operations Officer, Mynt, the parent company of GCash; Jianfeng Lu, Chief Executive Officer, Wiz.Ai; Tony Isidro, President and CEO of Fuse Financing Inc., the lending arm of GCash.

            “This partnership is a testament to the transformative power of enterprise voice AI when applied to visionary financial ecosystems like GCash. At WIZ.AI, we’ve built our reputation as the most trusted  AI partner because we understand that leaders need more than technology—they need solutions that integrate seamlessly and scale reliably. By expanding into quality assurance, we are jointly setting a new benchmark for digital lending operations across the region,” said Jianfeng Lu, Wiz.AI Chief Executive Officer.

            By integrating automation into both its customer service and QA functions, Fuse is directly addressing the industry’s biggest bottlenecks: limited capacity, high cost, and inconsistent quality. The result is a more scalable, accurate, and sustainable lending operation that combines digital precision with human expertise.

            As Fuse Financing and Wiz.AI continue to expand their collaboration, both companies remain focused on creating a future where lending is not only faster and more efficient but also smarter, setting new standards for digital finance in the Philippines. For more information, please visit www.gcash.com.

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            Isla ng Pag-asenso: How GCash helps Guimaras MSMEs go digital to earn more

            by Contributor
            written by Contributor

            MANILA, Philippines — Micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are the backbone and drivers of the economy, comprising 99.6% of all business establishments in the country and generating 67% of total employment—according to Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.

            They are the heart of local communities—creating jobs, providing livelihoods, supporting families, even preserving traditions.

            However, MSMEs must innovate to keep up with the changing demands in business, and entrepreneurs in Guimaras, an island province known for its sweet mangoes and artisanal products, know this too well.

            Keeping up with modern demands in business, they know that manual bookkeeping, paying suppliers in person, and other traditional methods can limit their growth and increase costs, especially since they are island-based.

            McNester Food Products owner Rebecca Tubongbanua and Parolas Guimaras owner Rhodora Garunita

            And now, they are future-proofing their operations with GCash, making transactions easier, faster and cost-efficient.

            Here are five inspiring MSME stories that show how digital finance can streamline processes, expand market reach and strengthen businesses—all while focusing on creating quality products for customers.

            1. Rebecca Tubongbanua of McNester Food Products

            (Products: calamansi juice and concentrate, dried mangoes, mango ketchup, mango sauce)

            Tubongbanua founded McNester Food Products in 2003 with a modest capital of P7,000. As a small kitchen operation, everything was prepared by hand and managed manually, from sourcing raw materials to paying suppliers and clients.

            She shares the challenges of running the business in its early years, which was eventually addressed by digital solutions: “Our operations were entirely manual. Eventually, with the rise of new technologies, we digitized our processes, from modern equipment to financial operations. Today, we no longer use checks for payment transactions.”

            Integrating GCash into their system has been a significant help to McNester Food Products, allowing it to exchange products and payments in real time. GCash also enables the company to pay for FDA permit renewals and transmit PhilHealth and other employee benefits on schedule.

            Through persistence and smart use of technology, McNester has now grown into a recognized brand, bringing Guimaras products to the rest of the country and the world.

            2. Rosario Griesser of Guimaras Wonder’s Farm

            (Products: fresh mangoes, cucumbers, other fruits and vegetables)

            Guimaras Wonder’s Farm began when Griesser and her husband relocated from Bulacan in 2001 and purchased a seven-hectare mango tree farm on the island.

            They transformed it into a sustainable and organic farm producing vegetables and other fruits. It has also become a tourist attraction and learning center for other farmers and agriculture students.

            “We consider ourselves early adopters of digital payment methods through GCash, which wasn’t widely used until the pandemic hit. Today, GCash accounts for 90% of our transactions, saving us both time and the cost of traveling from the farm to the town center for financial dealings. GCash is fast, convenient, and secure—I’ve never experienced losing money through it,” says Griesser about the role of digital finance in their business.

            The farm’s success proves that embracing technology can make operations smoother and more efficient while fostering sustainability.

            3. Rona Fe Delgado of Nonnie’s Delicacies

            (Products: polvoron, mango lengua)

            Delgado took over Nonnie’s Delicacies in 2016 to continue her family legacy. Through her mother’s dedication and hard work—with early mornings spent preparing products and making sure deliveries reached customers on time—the business grew to what it is today.

            The pandemic brought new challenges, including difficulty in face-to-face transactions. But with GCash, Nonnie’s Delicacies adapted quickly.

            When the pandemic hit, they finally opened a GCash account, which became their main tool for handling transactions.

            “Customers could pay us instantly, we used it to settle payments with our suppliers, and we were even able to pay our workers in the community. It made everything so much more convenient. Managing the business became a lot easier with GCash in place,” Delgado shares.

            4. Rhodora Garunita of Parolas Guimaras

            (Products: serafina, mango piaya)

            After returning from abroad in 2015, Garunita explored several small business ventures before creating her own brand, Parolas, which means “lighthouse.”

            “We joined a trade fair in Iloilo and sold mangoes and pasalubong items. We saw a lot of potential and asked ourselves, ‘Why not create something of our own?’ That gave birth to Parolas, a brand that would guide us toward product innovation and entrepreneurship,” explains Garunita.

            She shares how GCash streamlined her sales. Customers now reach them through their Facebook page and website, with payments and deliveries collected via GCash.

            Parolas shows how digital adoption can make even small businesses highly accessible to customers.

            5. Merly and Shaira Galanto of Merly Cashew Nuts and Delicacies

            (Products: cashew nuts, butterscotch, tarts)

            The Galantos’ journey began after Merly left her job as an OFW to return home and start a small store in 2002.

            With a capital of just P30,000 from savings, their family chose the cashew nut business, taking advantage of abundant local resources of Guimaras.

            “Merly Cashew Nuts and Delicacies has expanded to include other products, and we adopted GCash as our preferred cashless payment method. It has earned our trust by enabling quick and secure transactions, especially during trade fairs,” Shaira explains.

            With determination and digital adoption, Merly Cashew Nuts has become a successful business supporting the Galanto family and their community.

            Technology is most powerful when it enables people to thrive

            These five MSMEs are perfect examples of how digital finance can help strengthen local businesses.

            By using tools like GCash, Guimaras entrepreneurs are keeping up with market demands and future-proofing their operations, as well as contributing to the province’s economic growth.

            Technology is most powerful when it enables people to thrive, allowing small businesses to shine on a bigger stage—just like the Guimaras ladies empowered by digital finance.

            For more information on how GCash can help MSMEs grow, visit www.gcash.com.

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            Community

            Ministry of Social Services and Development-BARMM partners with GCash to expand cashless disbursement under FAST Project, roll out Bangsamoro Cards

            by Contributor
            written by Contributor

            The Ministry of Social Services and Development of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (MSSD-BARMM) has partnered with GCash, the Philippines’ leading finance super app and largest cashless ecosystem, to expand its cashless disbursement system under the Financial Assistance System Transformation (FAST) Project, an initiative designed to make the distribution of social assistance faster, more efficient, and more transparent for beneficiaries across the region.

            While MSSD-BARMM has already begun transitioning to digital payouts, the partnership with GCash expands the reach of the FAST Project, ensuring that financial assistance is more accessible and convenient for beneficiaries, including those in remote and underserved communities.

            “This partnership strengthens our FAST Project by expanding our cashless distribution channels and ensuring timely assistance for our beneficiaries,” said Atty. Raissa H. Jajurie, Minister of the Ministry of Social Services and Development. “Through this collaboration, we aim to make social support programs more inclusive, reliable, and efficient, reaching every Bangsamoro family and community who need it most.”

            The GCash engagement with the FAST Project also aligns with the company’s strategic focus on promoting financial inclusion among underserved communities, particularly within the Islamic population and the BARMM region. By prioritizing these areas, GCash seeks to support equitable access to financial services while empowering local communities with tools for everyday transactions and long-term financial health.

            Under the partnership, beneficiaries will receive Bangsamoro Cards powered by GCash, which serve as both identification and a cashless payment tool. The cards allow users to withdraw funds, make purchases, and access essential financial services even without a smartphone, helping ensure that no one is left behind in the region’s digital financial ecosystem. This expansion will directly benefit key MSSD-BARMM programs under the FAST Project, including educational assistance through Angat Bangsamoro: Kabataan Tungo sa Karunungan (ABaKa), livelihood support through Bangsamoro Sagip Kabuhayan (BSK), and emergency relief through the Bangsamoro Critical Assistance to Indigents in Response to Emergency Situations (BCARES).

            “For GCash, BARMM and Islamic communities are among our priority sectors,” said Cleo Celeste Santos, Head for Public Sector at GCash. “Digital finance penetration in these areas has historically lagged, which is why we are doubling down on our efforts. By working closely with MSSD-BARMM, we are providing accessible and culturally responsive solutions that help ensure the success of the FAST Project and other government programs.”

            The Ministry of Social Services and Development–BARMM partners with GCash to expand cashless disbursement under the FAST Project, enabling faster and more accessible delivery of social assistance through Bangsamoro Cards powered by GCash

            By expanding the FAST Project through GCash’s digital Funds Disbursement Service (FDS), MSSD-BARMM reinforces its commitment to modern governance, accountability, and inclusive development. Beneficiaries can now access assistance through a more convenient, secure, and widely available platform, ensuring that social aid reaches those who need it most. Through this partnership, GCash aims to strengthen financial access in BARMM, delivering solutions tailored to the unique needs of Muslim communities and supporting sustainable local growth.

            GCash continues to collaborate with national agencies, local governments, and ministries to advance digital transformation, helping ensure that social aid, livelihood support, and emergency assistance are delivered efficiently to Filipinos, particularly in priority and underserved sectors.

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            CommunityFeatured

            GLoan makes borrowing worry-free with free health and loan insurance, giving borrowers extra protection

            by Contributor
            written by Contributor

            GLoan now comes with free health and loan insurance underwritten by Oona Insurance Corporation.

            Fuse Financing Inc. (Fuse), the lending arm of GCash, is now giving free insurance coverage to GLoan borrowers with GLoan Protect. Available for a limited time, this newest feature  provides borrowers with free loan and health insurance for every GLoan disbursement worth a minimum of P500, underwritten by Oona Insurance Corporation. This free insurance will waive pending loan balance in case of sudden customer demise or accident-related permanent disability, and provide resources to recover from medical emergencies.

            Fuse Financing Inc. President and CEO Tony Isidro shares how this added feature can make a big difference in giving families additional safety nets.

            Life and health emergencies can strike unexpectedly. For many Filipinos, sudden medical expenses or unexpected urgent costs can quickly lead to financial distress. Hospitalization and

            medical costs often result in heavy debt, while the lack of insurance leaves families with limited options to recover financially.

            “Oftentimes, Filipinos don’t think of insurance until it’s too late,” said Tony Isidro, President and CEO of Fuse Financing Inc., the lending arm of GCash. “With the free insurance, we’re making sure that every time someone gets a GLoan, they also get a safety net. It’s our way of helping users feel more secure and protected without them having to spend extra.”

            By integrating protection into GLoan, GCash—through Fuse and GInsure, the digital insurance platform of GCash with inclusive insurance products across 11 categories including health, life, accident, travel, vehicle, and more —offers borrowers added peace of mind and a safety net against life’s uncertainties.

            Under GLoan Protect, the free health insurance covers a hospitalization allowance given to all eligible users who avail of a GLoan worth a minimum amount of P500 moving forward. Users can claim a minimum of P500 or up to 10% of the total loan value when they get confined in the hospital for a minimum stay of 3 days.

            Founder and CEO of Oona Insurance Abhishek Bhatia highlights bridging the protection gap for Filipinos and empowering them to move forward with confidence.

            The loan insurance benefit is automatically activated once a customer receives their loan proceeds from GLoan, and coverage remains constant and valid until the end of the loan term

            even when the customer fully pays off their loan earlier than the loan’s due date. In case of customer demise or accident-related permanent disability, beneficiaries will receive the remaining loan value, and the remaining balance will be waived and settled.

            The policy will automatically appear in the GInsure dashboard, making the process simple and familiar for borrowers. Claims can be filed through the same steps used for other GInsure products.

            “We see this synergy between Fuse and GInsure as part of our mission to reimagine what finance can do for every Filipino,” said Winsley Bangit, Group Head of New Businesses at Mynt, the parent company of GCash. “By combining credit and insurance on a single service, we’re pushing the boundaries of digital innovation to give Filipinos not just access to funding, but also the protection they deserve. It’s another step toward building a more inclusive and resilient financial ecosystem.”

            GCash made this initiative possible in partnership with Oona Insurance Corporation,  a wholly-owned company by Oona Philippines Holdings Corporation (OPHC), actively expanding into health and digital-first solutions that meet the needs of today’s consumers. Through this partnership, GCash is bringing essential protection to more Filipinos by integrating coverage directly into its widely used digital services.

            “Our mission at Oona is to make protection part of everyday life, not something out of reach. Partnering with Fuse and GCash shows how insurance can be embedded seamlessly into the financial services people already use, from borrowing to everyday transactions. By making coverage automatic and effortless, we take an important step toward closing the protection gap and ensuring more Filipinos have the security to move forward with confidence.” said Abhishek Bhatia, Founder and CEO of Oona Insurance.

            (L-R) Winsely Bangit, Group Head of New Businesses, Mynt; Abhisek Bhatia, Founder and CEO, Oona Insurance Corporation; Tony Isidro, President and CEO, Fuse Financing Inc.; and Ninoy Rollan, President, Oona Insurance Philippines.

            This added benefit strengthens GLoan’s role as more than just a lending option. It becomes a tool that provides quick access to funds and supports Filipinos in building resilience against emergencies.

            “This is about giving our users peace of mind,” Isidro said. “When someone takes out a loan, they’re usually thinking about solving an immediate need. By adding free insurance, we’re also helping them prepare for the unexpected. It’s a small change that can make a big difference in protecting families from unforeseen circumstances,” Isidro concluded.

            Through this enhanced offering, GCash continues to push its mission of financial inclusion — ensuring more Filipinos have access to services that can improve their financial security in both the short and long term.

            GLoan Protect is now available to new GLoan transactions for a limited time starting on January 16 until March 31, 2025. Borrowers should be Filipino citizens, aged 21-65,  fully-verified GCash users with a minimum loan approved and disbursed amount of PHP 500, and at least one month loan tenor.

            For more information about GLoan and its free insurance benefit, please visit https://help.gcash.com.

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            Business

            GCash represents PH at Mastercard Global Financial Health Coalition, showcases fintech expertise in international arena

            by Contributor
            written by Contributor

            Leading finance super app GCash is bringing its financial technology expertise as the sole Philippine founding partner in the Mastercard Global Financial Health Coalition, an international network of industry innovators focused on advancing financial health and resilience.

            Represented by GCash lending arm Fuse Financing Inc., its president and CEO, Tony Isidro, is sharing his knowledge on how to further financial inclusion on a larger scale through technology.

            This perspective sets the stage for the participation of GCash in the Coalition, which aims to strengthen financial resilience in emerging markets by connecting people to the right tools — harnessing technology for protection and empowering long-term financial habits. Other members of the Coalition include DANA, TrueMoney, MTN Group Fintech, Airtel Africa, MOCO, Axian, Daviplata, and The Center for Financial Inclusion.

            Tony Isidro, President and CEO of Fuse Financing Inc. represented GCash during the Mastercard ASEAN Inclusive Growth Summit in Malaysia, highlighting the importance of enabling credit access to MSMEs to support their growth.

            “GCash has transformed how millions of Filipinos manage their money—bringing secure, digital financial services into everyday life. Through its lending arm, Fuse Financing Inc., it has democratized lending in the Philippines, making credit fair and more accessible to millions, especially the unbanked and underserved segments, “ Isidro said.

            “By joining this coalition, we aim to extend that impact beyond our borders, sharing our mobile-first innovation and insights to help strengthen financial resilience across emerging markets,” he added.

            More than account openings

            For Isidro, the industry must confront a hard truth: opening an account is not enough to improve financial well-being. Real progress depends on whether people trust financial tools, understand them and use them regularly. Technology is central to building these behaviors. It strengthens security, simplifies transactions and enables users to take control of their financial decisions.

            According to Isidro, however, many Filipinos remain outside the formal financial system despite the rapid expansion of digital adoption in the country. This gap is evident in a study by Mastercard showing that 49.8% of adults still do not have a formal financial account. This limits access to savings, credit, and insurance that are key to long-term financial stability.

            Fuse Financing addressed this gap by offering credit products that are simple, secure and accessible through the GCash app. This accessibility led to a growth in lending activities, reflecting a shift in behavior as more users integrate borrowing into their daily financial routines. This pattern aligns with Mastercard’s findings that deeper usage of financial tools is closely associated with financial progression.

            The Philippines illustrates how fintech platforms can reach communities that traditional banking has not fully served. Mastercard’s analysis also shows that when digital and physical tools complement each other, people are more likely to build consistent financial habits. This reinforces the role of technology as a driver of trust and adoption.

            Isidro, as such said, the coalition strengthens the opportunity to bring this approach to more markets.

            “We look forward to learning from fellow coalition members whose diverse experiences and best practices can help us further elevate our solutions. Together, we can accelerate progress toward a truly inclusive digital economy,” he said.

            As the Coalition moves forward, the experience and expertise of GCash in driving adoption and responsible borrowing will contribute to a broader, regional effort to improve financial health. The goal is to build a digital economy where more people have the tools and confidence to advance financially.

            For more information, please visit www.gcash.com.

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